Ex-Forces Advanced Programme
A rewarding career for NCOs and Officers
Designed for experienced service leavers
The FDM Ex-Forces Advanced Programme begins with a 5-week training course. It is suitable for individuals from all branches of service who are looking for a career within the technology sector.
Launch a successful commercial career in tech
Once you have completed the training process, you will have the opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on experience, working with one of our industry-leading clients.
Whether it’s previous leadership or management experience, we value the skills you have developed over the years.
We provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the programme, helping you make a smooth transition into your new career.
Enhance your knowledge and skills
Get accredited training and industry relevant certifications, such as PRINCE2 and PSM1 Process on completion of our 5-week Project Management training course. We will provide you with the appropriate learning platforms to maximise your potential for professional success.
During the training, you will gain skills in:
Stakeholder management
Change management
CV writing
Budget process
PRINCE2 and Scrum Master
Risk management
Elevator pitches
Interview techniques
Business analysis
Choose your career path
Whether you’re orchestrating a design team’s development schedule, leading a group of software testers, or managing stakeholders during the planning stages of a new digital transformation project, you will have the opportunity to work with our clients in a variety of roles across the Software Development Lifecycle.
Essential qualities
A career that grows with you
The FDM Programme is designed to build your portfolio of commercial experience, providing a foundation for a successful career. We will also ensure you have the professional and technical skills to advance your existing skill set in Project Delivery. Many FDM Consultants go on to secure permanent opportunities with our clients. Alternatively, you can continue your FDM journey as a Senior Consultant, where you will work on different projects across various industries.
Interested in coming to one of our Insight Days?
Our regular insight events are structured to help you make an informed decision about your next big step. Talk to the team and find out how to kickstart your new career.
Find out everything you need to know about the programme in your digital booklet.
What our consultants say
Neil Luke
Project Management Officer in Banking/finance
Royal Marines, Sergeant
Neil joined the Royal Marine Reserve in 2015 after spending 13 years as a Regular Royal Marine Commando. After completing basic training at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, he chose the FDM Ex-Forces Advanced pathway. Neil’s first placement with FDM was with a major commercial bank, where he worked as a Project Management Office Team member, whilst delivering a large IT transformation within the organisation. Neil now works at another bank, supporting a team in its adaption of Scaled Agile planning. He draws on his extensive experience of scaled planning from his time in the military to ease the transition for his colleagues.
Jamie Marshall
Project Manager in Telecommunications
British Army, Royal Artillery, Staff Sergeant
Jamie left the Armed Forces in 2021 after several years with the Royal Artillery. During his time in the Army, he was promoted to Staff Sergeant and served across various technical communications and specialist surveillance roles. He conducted operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, finishing his career as a Project and Operational Manager of a specialist surveillance organisation. Jamie was selected during his training to be employed as a Project Manager with an IT Service Provider. He soon became responsible for managing the entire project lifecycle from start-up through to final acceptance and close-down. His success and proactive approach have led to additional responsibilities, such as the management of internal and external resources.
Rosslyn Beattie
Cyber Security Project Manager in Banking
British Army, Corps of Royal Signals, WO1
Rosslyn had a successful career within the Royal Corps of Signals and achieved the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1 whilst holding the appointment of Regimental Foreman of Signals (senior technical advisor to the Commanding Officer). She delivered several communications engineering projects, from Northern Ireland to Iraq, and Afghanistan to the Balkans, supporting small to large multi-national headquarters. During the FDM training, Rosslyn was selected to be a Cyber Security Project Manager with a global financial services organisation. Rosslyn has also adapted the role of mentor to other young women, taking a keen interest in promoting STEM careers, whilst encouraging and developing gender diversity in the workplace.